Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff has warned that any member of the armed forces found plotting to overthrow the country’s democratic government will face prosecution.
Air Marshal Sunday Aneke made the remarks on Wednesday during a strategic meeting with commanders at the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja.
He described a recently uncovered alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s government as “shameful, shocking, and wholly reprehensible”.
“I unequivocally condemn recent revelations that plans were made by certain individuals to subvert democracy and violently take over the government,” he said before the meeting went into a closed-door session.
“Such actions are shameful, shocking, and wholly reprehensible. Any perpetrators will face the full wrath of the law. The Nigerian Air Force remains loyal to the Constitution and the democratically elected government of the day.”
He reminded commanders of their responsibility to maintain discipline within the ranks and prevent unlawful activity.
“Accordingly, commanders are reminded of their responsibility to maintain unity and cohesion within the ranks while checking all forms of indiscipline and unlawful activity,” he added.
Local media report that more than 40 military officers and civilians have been arrested in connection with the alleged coup attempt, which was said to have been planned in October last year. Families of those detained have reportedly called for leniency and a fair trial.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has experienced several military coups in its post-independence history, though it has remained under civilian rule since 1999.
The authorities have not released full details of the alleged plot, but senior military officials have reiterated their commitment to constitutional order and democratic governance.
